An Interview with Jess C. Scott
Interview conducted c. early 2010s
Introduction
Jess C. Scott is a multi-genre author whose work spans cyberpunk, urban fantasy, young adult fiction, crime, and experimental storytelling. Known for blending intensity, introspection, and originality, Scott’s writing explores identity, purpose, and meaning across both mainstream and unconventional forms.
This interview offers insight into her creative process, her disciplined approach to outlining and productivity, and her philosophy of writing with intention while remaining open to intuition. It captures a moment in the early evolution of an author consciously shaping both craft and career in a rapidly changing publishing landscape.
The Interview
Life as a Writer
How did you get into writing?
My goal was to write my first novel by the age of 21, and to publish it by the age of 23. I liked the speed, efficiency and DIY aspect of self-publishing, so I’ve been on it since mid-2009 (a few months before I turned 23).
When did you first realize that you have what it takes to be a writer?
I have very intense but quite scattered drives a lot of the time. Writing is one of the rare activities which focuses my thoughts and energy for some kind of useful outcome (in a process that’s enjoyable for me as well).
Premise
Where do you get your ideas from?
Everywhere, for sure. A short comment on a blog or article; a Facebook status update; something someone said; what I read on the back of a cereal box…
How do you develop your ideas into a story?
I let them float around in my mind until it’s time to start piecing things together. I can be inspired by a lot of different sources so it’s a pretty intuitive process, in a creative-analytical kind of way. It’s a personal thing too, but I guess it’s how I stay open/honest with myself, the story/characters, and readers/customers.
Genre
What kind of stories do you enjoy working with?
I’m passionate about original stories that are both meaningful and entertaining, so that’s what I run along with.
What genres would you like to explore in the future?
Crime fiction (murder mysteries and psychological thrillers, in particular). I’d like to work in a genre that’s mainstream but allows for some quirkiness and/or deviancy.
Structure
Do you work from an outline?
Yes, most of the time. I like following a quite detailed outline as it keeps me focused (I divide it into parts sometimes, so that I can clear off a certain amount on a regular basis).
Plot
How do you build your story?
It depends on the inspiration for a certain point or message I’d like to explore. That’s usually the starting point since it’s sort of the foundation for the entire thing.
Character
For you, what makes a great hero?
I think intensity and not being driven or motivated by shallow values make a great hero.
If one of your characters were to describe you, what would he/she say?
“Complex.”
Setting
How much time do you spend researching the setting for your stories?
A little bit, though I generally feel a greater connection to developing realistic, memorable characters.
What settings would you like to explore in the future?
The settings I dream about at night. Some are really vivid.
Theme
Do you like to know the purpose of your story before you sit down to write it?
Yes, usually. I like having some kind of purpose to my life (this is reflected in what I write about as well).
Dialogue
Do you have any favorite lines from your stories?
In Wicked Lovely, one of the characters says, “I felt like an animal, and animals don’t know sin, do they?”
Writing
Do you have a routine? A certain place to write? Do you listen to music?
I try to keep to a certain output everyday (though I generally don’t do much writing if I’m temporarily in between projects). I like to type on my home PC (somewhere quiet and comfortable). I listen to music sometimes when I’m doing tedious tasks like formatting or looking out for spelling errors.
How do you deal with writer’s block?
I stop writing and float around until the writing impulse kicks in again. Watching quality TV shows and doing a bit of daily exercise are important things on the to-do list too.
Story Development
How do you go about fixing a story?
I’ll discuss key issues with people whose opinions I respect. Good ideas tend to float around when I’m in the shower. I usually try to work out a good outline beforehand. When the first draft has some kind of structure, I find it generally requires less fixing later on.
How do you know when to stop?
I guess there’s a sense that the story is complete (in terms of storyline and what the characters go through).
Words of Advice
What words of advice would you give to new writers?
Work hard and smart, and keep improving along the way. Try to be as disciplined and efficient as possible.
Zombie Apocalypse
So, what is YOUR plan for the zombie apocalypse?
I think it’s already arrived in some ways, so I’ll either join the zombies or do whatever I can to survive while maintaining my self-identity and sanity.
Final Thoughts
What’s the best thing you’ve ever written?
The next project.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently outlining the last installment of my Cyberpunk Elven Trilogy. I might complete a dragon trilogy before working on a psychological thriller next year. I’ve been looking out for a couple of commercial niches I could try working in—my early work is a bit too complex to categorize neatly.
About the Author
Jess C. Scott writes across a wide range of genres, including cyberpunk, urban fantasy, young adult fiction, crime fiction, and experimental narratives. Her work often explores themes of identity, authenticity, and self-discovery, with an emphasis on originality and emotional intensity.
Closing Note
This interview is preserved as part of the Better Storytelling archive, documenting the creative perspectives of working authors and the evolving philosophies behind modern storytelling.